10 Most Intriguing Characters From The Last Kingdom
As the series draws to a close, which characters have made the most impact so far?
Seven years have passed since The Last Kingdom first hit the airwaves, but with its fifth and final season released this week, the historical epic finally draws to a close.
The Netflix Original, which has been adapted from Bernard Cornwell’s Saxon Stories, follows Uhtred son of Uhtred on his quest to reclaim his ancestral home. Born a Saxon and raised a Dane, Uhtred is the rightful Lord of Bebbanburg, a title usurped from him by his uncle after the death of his father. The Last Kingdom traces Uhtred’s pursuit for redemption during the formative years of England’s birth, as warring factions fight for control of the Kingdoms of Wessex, Mercia, East Anglia and Northumberland.
Over the course of four seasons, Uhtred has encountered heroes and villains on both sides, many of whom have shaped and impacted his journey to regain his birthright. He has been a sworn sword to kings and a thorn in the side of courtiers. He’s slain warlords and battled shieldmaidens alike, finding strength and courage among an assortment of priests, nuns, outcasts and scoundrels along the way.
With the concluding season of The Last Kingdom streaming now, followed by an epic feature-length film titled Seven Kings Must Die in 2023, it is the perfect time to reflect on the most intriguing characters to have graced the series thus far. Season 5 promises to be the biggest and boldest yet. Who will survive? Destiny is all.
10. Edward
As the newly-crowned King of the Anglo-Saxons, Edward has had his path laid before him since birth – to unite the Saxon kingdoms under one sovereign and one God. Ruling in the shadow of his father’s memory, the burden of kingship weighs heavy on Edward’s head as he struggles to grow accustomed to the crown of Wessex.
Unbeknownst to Edward, many of his close companions conspire to control him in order to assert their influence over the youthful ruler, exploiting his insecurity as he seeks counsel in his secluded position as king. However, Edward’s maturation over the course of the show parallels with his growth into a worthy monarch, as the young leader ultimately learns to rule with his own mind. His progression from a side character into a vital component in the series is a testament to the fantastic portrayal by Timothy Innes, who flourishes in his more central role.
With Edward’s father-in-law, the powerful Lord Æthelhelm, aiming to tighten his grip on the ruler to consolidate his own family’s grasp on the throne, Edward’s mission to balance power at court will prove difficult as he seeks to fulfil his father’s mission to form the Kingdom of England.